Naomi Girma Headlines USWNT Roster Shake-Up

Naomi Girma’s return to the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) headlines a fresh-looking roster as head coach Emma Hayes continues to reshape her squad for the upcoming friendlies against Italy. Girma, revered for her defensive prowess, will don the national colors for the first time since early July, injecting renewed confidence and leadership into the USWNT.

Naomi Girma Returns to Anchor USWNT Defense

Naomi Girma’s inclusion marks a vital boost to the USWNT defense after a year marred by injuries and limited appearances. Hayes has openly praised Girma, calling her “the best defender I’ve ever seen,” and her presence will be pivotal as the team refines its back line. Girma’s calm, strategic play and quiet leadership offer more than just on-field stability—they set the tone for the entire camp. Having recently made a significant impact in Chelsea’s 6-0 Champions League win over St. Pölten, Girma’s fitness and form are peaking at an opportune time.

USWNT Goalkeeper Picture Sees New Faces

The goalkeeper situation sees another shake-up as Phallon Tullis-Joyce misses out due to injury, paving the way for Bay FC’s Jordan Silkowitz to earn a second call-up. Alongside Claudia Dickey and Mandy McGlynn, Silkowitz brings fresh competition to a relatively inexperienced trio, with just eight combined caps between them. Hayes has made it clear she’s open to experimentation, signaling that the friendlies against Italy could be a critical audition for these shot-stoppers.

Chelsea Trio Brings European Experience

Joining Girma in the squad are fellow Chelsea standouts Alyssa Thompson and Catarina Macario, both of whom have shone in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Macario, in particular, has been in red-hot form, netting two goals recently for Chelsea. The trio’s European experience adds a new dimension and underscores Hayes’ willingness to blend domestic NWSL talent with players based abroad. Six squad members now ply their trade in Europe, including Lindsey Heaps and Lily Yohannes at Lyon and Emily Fox at Arsenal.

Emerging Talent: Jaedyn Shaw in the Spotlight

Another name drawing attention is forward Jaedyn Shaw, who returns for a second consecutive senior camp after impressing with both club and country. Shaw’s record—scoring in her first five USWNT starts—highlights her poise and knack for big moments. Her recent playoff heroics with Gotham FC, including a decisive free-kick in overtime, underline her growing influence and suggest she could be a key part of the attacking mix as Hayes looks toward the 2027 World Cup.

Injury Absences and Fresh Opportunities

While the USWNT roster for these friendlies is missing some familiar faces due to injuries and NWSL fatigue, Hayes’ decision to integrate three uncapped players—Silkowitz, Chicago Stars forward Jameese Joseph, and Washington Spirit defender Kate Wiesner—shows her commitment to expanding the player pool. This ongoing rotation not only addresses immediate squad needs but also ensures depth and resilience heading into a pivotal year.

What This Means for USWNT’s World Cup Build-Up

The friendlies against Italy serve as more than just a year-end fixture list; they are a vital testing ground as the USWNT sharpens its focus on the 2027 World Cup. With Girma back at the heart of defense, new goalkeeping options, and the continued integration of European-based talent, Hayes is laying the groundwork for a squad capable of adapting to challenges and sustaining its dominance on the global stage.

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Opinion: Hayes’ Bold Choices Signal a New Era

Emma Hayes’ approach in this roster release is both pragmatic and forward-thinking. By balancing the return of proven leaders like Naomi Girma with the inclusion of uncapped prospects, she’s ensuring the USWNT remains competitive now and into the future. This blend of experience, youth, and international exposure is exactly what the team needs as it enters a new cycle. The coming matches will not only test individual readiness but also set the tone for 2026 and beyond.